When the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship (AAC) returns to Dubai this October, it will be more than just a prestigious golf tournament; it will represent a pivotal moment for the UAE.
For the first time, five Emirati golfers will unite to represent their nation at one of amateur golf’s most celebrated arenas, competing on home ground at the iconic Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club from October 23–26, 2025.
Founded in 2009 by the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC), The R&A, and the Masters Tournament, the AAC is renowned for shaping the futures of its participants. Its champion earns a coveted invitation to the 2026 Masters Tournament at Augusta National and a spot in The 154th Open. The runner-up secures entry into The Open Qualifying Series, while the top three earn exemption into The Amateur Championship.
In the UAE, all eyes will be on Ahmad Skaik, the nation’s top amateur golfer, who will be making his sixth AAC appearance. A major milestone in his career occurred during the 2021 edition at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, where he became the second Emirati ever to make the cut.
Skaik Thrives on Home Advantage
“I’m really excited; it’s always special to play significant events like this at home,” Skaik said. “I know the Majlis Course well; it’s an incredible venue with a rich history of hosting some of the world’s best players. I’m thrilled to compete there for the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, and I imagine the other players feel the same.”
He will be joined by four fellow Emiratis: newcomers Sam Mullane and Jonathan Selvaraj, Abdulla Kalbat, who played in Japan last year, and teenager Rayan Ahmed. On his AAC debut in 2023, Ahmed became the third Emirati to make the cut, earning praise from Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley and EGF Vice-Chairman General Abdullah Alhashmi.
Alhashmi Celebrates UAE Pride
General Alhashmi expressed pride in the UAE’s strong representation on home soil.
“Seeing such a remarkable field of amateur golfers come together at Emirates Golf Club is a proud moment for us,” he said. “The Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship showcases the best emerging talent from across our region, and this year is no exception.
“For the UAE, having five of our own players competing on home ground makes the occasion even more special.
“It offers them a chance to test themselves against the strongest amateurs in Asia-Pacific, inspire the next generation of Emirati golfers, and showcase our nation’s progress in the sport,” Alhashmi added. “We look forward to welcoming every player to Dubai for a historic week of golf.”
Showcasing Global Talent
The strength of the international field underscores the challenge. Over 116 players from 42 APGC member organizations are confirmed, including Australia’s standout amateur golfer Harry Takis, China’s 2024 AAC runner-up Ziqin Zhou, and Thailand’s rising star Ratchanon “TK” Chantananuwat.
Historically, China, Australia, Japan, and Korea have dominated the event, sharing all 15 previous titles.
Notable past competitors include 2021 Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama, a two-time Asia-Pacific Amateur winner, and 2022 Open champion Cameron Smith.
Over its 15-year history, the Championship has also been a springboard for some of the world’s top players, including Matsuyama, 2021 champion Keita Nakajima of Japan, Smith, Cameron Davis, Min Woo Lee of Australia, New Zealand’s Ryan Fox, Korea’s Si Woo Kim, and Chinese Taipei’s C.T. Pan.
Alumni Achieve Global Success
Collectively, Asia-Pacific Amateur alumni have won 33 tournaments on the PGA Tour and over 140 events across major professional tours.
For the UAE, hosting the AAC is not just a unique opportunity; it’s a chance to showcase the development of golf in the Emirates as they aim to transform national pride into a winning performance.
For more information, visit: www.apgc.online
